Australia is one of the most diverse countries in the world and is popularly known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife. No matter, if you are an adventurer, beach lover, or cultural aficionado, Australia has something to offer to everyone.

However, you must know that Australia is the 6^th largest country in the world and the only country that is an entire continent. So, exploring the entire country in one visit doesn’t seem possible, especially if you are visiting for a few days or weeks.

In this blog, we are going to reveal the 10 best cities you must visit in Australia. You just need to visit these cities to explore a major part of the country without having to take a full lap.

So, let’s begin:     

Top 10 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

1- Sydney

Sydney is a spectacular coastal city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication, and cultural richness. It is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and most-visited cities in Australia.

One of the most legendary landmarks in Sydney is the iconic Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO world heritage site known for its distinctive sail-like architecture and breathtaking harbor views. Moreover, it’s one of the most photographed buildings in the world.

Another iconic place you should visit is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, also commonly known as “The Coathanger.” We recommend you to climb to the peak of the bridge to enjoy the amazing view.

The city also has some of the best beaches in the world which is indeed a major attraction for tourists. Bondi Beach, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, is a must-visit spot. Moreover, there are other beaches like Coogee Beach which is usually less crowded, and Queenscliff Beach which is popular among surfers for its heavy waves.

Beyond the beaches, Sydney offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including world-class museums, art galleries, and theaters. The Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Australian Museum, and the Powerhouse Museum are just a few of the city’s renowned cultural institutions.

Sydney is also a shopper’s paradise, with many shopping districts that cater to every taste and budget. From the high-end boutiques of the Queen Victoria Building and The Strand Arcade to the vibrant markets and precincts like Newtown and Paddington, Sydney offers a shopping experience like no other.

See Also: More Things to Do in Sydney

2- Melbourne

Melbourne is the second most populated city in Australia and the coastal capital of Victoria. What makes Melbourne special is its exciting city center and buzzing neighborhood hubs. However, the city is best known for its lively art scene, world-class dining experiences, and fascinating architectural marvels.

One of the main attractions in Melbourne is its renowned laneways and arcades, which are lined with trendy cafés, quirky shops, and street art. The city’s street art scene is truly remarkable, with entire alleyways transformed into outdoor galleries showcasing the works of local and international artists.

Melbourne is also a shopping heaven, with the iconic Bourke Street Mall and the historic Queen Victoria Market having plenty to offer. From department stores and high-end boutiques to independent designer outlets, there’s everything for everyone.

If you are interested in sports then you should know that Melbourne is a mecca for sports enthusiasts. It is home to several world-class sporting venues, including the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Melbourne Park, which hosts the Australian Open Grand Slam tennis tournament annually.

Even for nature lovers, there are plenty of parks and gardens, including the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, which features an impressive collection of native and exotic plant species, as well as serene walking trails and green landscapes.

See Also: More Things to Do in Melbourne

3- Adelaide

Adelaide is a vibrant city located in the southern part of Australia. Not only it’s the capital of South Australia but also the largest city of the state by population, and the 5^th largest city in Australia.

Adelaide is renowned for its exceptional food and wine culture. The nearby regions of Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are famous for producing world-class wines, making Adelaide a paradise for Oenophiles.

The city also has a thriving cafe and restaurant scene, where you can enjoy a variety of cuisines, from modern Australian to multicultural delights. It’s also good to know that Adelaide is home to some of Australia’s official best restaurants and hotels.

Moreover, Adelaide is a city that values its green spaces and outdoor lifestyle. The city center is surrounded by gorgeous parks, such as the Adelaide Botanic Garden and the Adelaide Parklands that provide a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

The city also has beaches like Glenelg Beach and Henley Beach which are popular destinations for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

The city’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its museums, art galleries, and historic buildings. The Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum are must-visit attractions for those interested in art and history.

Adelaide is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Adelaide Fringe Festival and the WOMADelaide Music Festival which adds something extra to what this amazing city has to offer.

See Also: More Things to Do in Adelaide

4- Cairns

Cairns is a city located in the tropical far north of Queensland. This city attracts thousands of visitors every year with its beautiful natural surroundings and some of the most iconic destinations.

The main attraction of Cairns is undoubtedly the Great Barrier Reef. This vast and vibrant coral reef system is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and also one of the most diverse and fascinating ecosystems on the planet.

Not only you can take boat tours but you can even go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the underwater world and witness the incredible marine life up close.

Another major attraction near Cairns is the Daintree Rainforest. This ancient rainforest is part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland, another UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to primitive flowering plants and 430 species of birds, including some found nowhere else on Earth.

You can take guided tours through the rainforest, explore hiking trails, and even stay in eco-lodges to feel closer to nature.

Within Cairns itself, there are plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. The city has a lively waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and shops.

The Esplanade Lagoon is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing, offering a beautiful outdoor pool with views of the ocean. Cairns is also a great base for exploring the nearby tropical islands and beaches.

5- Canberra

Canberra is the capital of Australia and a significant destination for tourists visiting the country. Despite being a planned city, it mesmerizes visitors with its modern architecture, natural landscapes, and cultural attractions.

One of the main attractions of Canberra is the Australian Parliament House, an impressive building that serves as the meeting place for the country’s legislature. You can take guided tours and learn about the intricate workings of the Australian government.

The city is also home to several renowned museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Australia, which houses an extensive collection of Australian and international artworks. The Australian War Memorial, a solemn and moving tribute to the nation’s military history, is another must-visit attraction.

If you are interested in exploring the great outdoors, Canberra offers plenty of opportunities. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and parks, such as the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, where visitors can spot kangaroos, koalas, and other native wildlife in their natural habitats.

Canberra’s culinary scene is also worth exploring, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and markets offering local and international cuisines. The city is particularly known for its vibrant coffee culture and excellent brunch spots.

See Also: More Things to Do in Canberra

6- Brisbane

Brisbane is the capital of the state of Queensland and is located on the east coast of Australia. Brisbane has a warm, subtropical climate which makes it pleasant to visit year-round.

One attraction that you can’t miss in Brisbane is the Brisbane River. The river winds through the center of the city. You can take river cruises, go kayaking, or just stroll along the lovely riverfront parks and bikeways.

In the heart of Brisbane is the Central Business District, with modern skyscrapers and shopping centers. But the city also has lovely older neighborhoods like Paddington where you will find lovely cafes and boutiques.

If you are a nature lover, you will enjoy the many green spaces in Brisbane like the City Botanic Gardens and Roma Street Parkland. Just outside the city is the world’s largest sand island, Moreton Island National Park.

Brisbane will also impress you with its amazing fresh seafood, as well as tasty international cuisine influenced by the city’s multiculturalism.

See Also: More Things to Do in Brisbane

7- Perth

Perth is the capital of Western Australia State and is located on the western coast of the country. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with dry hot summers and mild wet winters.

Perth is best known for its stunning beaches. Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach, and City Beach are just a few examples of the beautiful stretches of sand and clear blue waters that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying different water sports.

The city center of Perth is a lively area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. You should definitely visit King Street and Hay Street for shopping. Moreover, you should go to the Perth Cultural Center where you can visit museums, art galleries, and performance venues.

If you want to enjoy nature and outdoor activities then Kings Park and Western Australian Botanic Garden is a must-visit. This vast urban park will offer stunning views of the city skyline, as well as walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful gardens.

Perth is also a great base for exploring the surrounding regions, such as the Margaret River (wine region), the Pinnacles Desert, and the beaches and coastal towns of the Coral Coast.

See Also: More Things to Do in Perth

8- Hobart

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, a stunning natural beauty island state located off the southern coast of mainland Australia. Hobart is one of the UNESCO Cities of Literature but is most famous for its rich cultural and natural landscapes.

One of Hobart’s most iconic attractions is the historic Salamanca Place, a waterfront precinct that hosts a lively outdoor market every Saturday. Here, you can explore stalls offering locally made crafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food, all while soaking in the atmosphere of the sandstone warehouses.

Another must-visit destination in Hobart is the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens which was established in 1818. There you will be able to witness Australia’s only Subantarctic Plant House. Moreover, there is a 14 hectares of area to explore. So, you can take time to relax, explore, or have a walk based on your interests.

If you are an outdoor person who likes to adventure then Mount Wellington, towering over Hobart, is the place to be at. Not only you can enjoy hiking trails but can also explore breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas.

If you want to be more adventurous then you can try your hand at rock climbing or abseiling on the mountain’s rugged cliffs.

The food scene in Hobart is also sizzling. If you are a foodie, you will be delighted by the local seafood. From trendy cafés and award-winning restaurants to cozy pubs and farmer’s markets, the city has something to satisfy every taste bud.

See Also: More Things to Do in Hobart

9- Darwin

Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory in Australia. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. The city sits on a peninsula, surrounded by the Timor Sea. It offers visitors a tropical climate and a chance to experience incredible natural wonders.

One of the best things about Darwin is that it offers access to amazing national parks and natural areas. Just a short drive from the city are Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, and the Tiwi Islands. You can visit all these places to experience the unique landscapes and wildlife of the Australian Outback.

In the city itself, visitors can explore Darwin’s interesting history and culture. Key attractions include the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, the Indo-Pacific marine life at the Darwin Aquaculture Centre, and the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.

The city also has great food from all around the world thanks to its multicultural population. With its laidback vibe, diverse influences, and easy access to the rugged Australian bush, Darwin makes for a fascinating and memorable visit.

The city offers a side of Australia that is quite different from the big coastal cities on the country’s southern side.

See Also: More Things to Do in Darwin

10- Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is a coastal city in Queensland that is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches that stretch for miles and miles. In the Gold Coast city, you will find destinations like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads that are extremely popular among locals and tourists.

The Gold Coast has a warm, subtropical climate that makes it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. You can swim, surf, sunbathe, or just relax on the beach. There are also many parks and nature reserves as well where you can go hiking or have a picnic.

In addition to the beaches, the Gold Coast offers lots of other attractions and things to do. There are huge theme parks like Dreamworld, MovieWorld, and SeaWorld that you can visit. Moreover, you can go shopping at the malls, markets, and boutiques.

The city has a lively atmosphere, especially in places like Surfers Paradise. There you’ll find high-rise hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, right along the coast.

See Also: More Things to Do in Gold Coast

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Australian city should I visit first?

For first-time visitors, Sydney is often the recommended city to start the journey. As the largest and most cosmopolitan city in the country, Sydney offers a diverse range of attractions, including iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, world-class beaches like Bondi and Manly, vibrant neighborhoods for dining and nightlife, and easy access to other popular destinations in New South Wales and beyond.

What is the most beautiful city in Australia?

While beauty is subjective, many people consider Melbourne to be the most beautiful city in Australia. Known for its stunning Victorian architecture, lush parks and gardens, and artistic flair, Melbourne offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural charm.